In the state of Maryland, a couple considering ending their marriage has another option available before jumping right to the divorce process. Although they are not that common, a legal separation can be used in a situation where a couple is still figuring out whether they want to try and make their marriage work or if they want to go ahead with the divorce.
How to prepare for a legal separation
Before beginning divorce proceedings, many Maryland couples choose to undergo a legal separation to sort out their feelings and see if their marriage can be saved. However, there are several considerations that people should keep in mind before choosing to live apart for a period of time.
Legal separation vs. informal separation in Maryland
It is common for some Maryland couples who think they might want to divorce to first want a separation in order to make their determination about whether or not ending their marriage is appropriate for them. Legal separation is different from an informal separation in which one spouse simply moves out. Even though two spouses may live apart, the marriage contract still controls.